What board games are good for dementia patients? A compassionate guide

According to the World Health Organization, around 55 million people worldwide are living with dementia, and that number is rising. For caregivers, finding stimulating activities is key to maintaining quality of life. Knowing what board games are good for dementia patients can provide a valuable, joyful way to connect and engage.

Quick Summary

Ideal board games for dementia patients are often familiar, simple, and adaptable, helping to reduce confusion and anxiety. Classic choices like dominoes and checkers or specially designed reminiscence games can provide cognitive stimulation, boost mood, and create opportunities for positive social interaction.

Key Points

• Familiarity is Key: Choose games that are well-known from the patient's past to encourage memory recall and reduce confusion.

• Simplicity Over Complexity: Opt for games with straightforward rules and clear objectives to prevent frustration.

• Adapt for Success: Modify game rules, use larger pieces, and focus on cooperation to make the activity more enjoyable.

• Emphasize Connection, Not Competition: The main goal is positive social interaction and shared moments, not winning or losing.

• Read Their Cues: Pay close attention to signs of frustration and be prepared to end the session early if needed.

• Explore Reminiscence Games: Specialized games designed to prompt memory and conversation can be highly effective and meaningful.

The Importance of Games for Those with Dementia

Engaging in mentally stimulating activities like playing board games offers numerous benefits for people living with dementia. It's not about winning or complex strategy, but about the process itself—the social interaction, the familiar routine, and the cognitive engagement. Playing games can improve mood, reduce agitation, and provide a meaningful way to connect with loved ones and caregivers. It helps preserve cognitive function, improves communication skills, and provides a valuable sense of normalcy.

Benefits of playing board games:

• Enhances cognitive function: Simple games can help stimulate memory, attention, and problem-solving skills.
• Boosts mood and emotional well-being: A fun and low-pressure activity can lead to joy, laughter, and a sense of accomplishment.
• Increases social interaction: Board games encourage conversation and connection, combating loneliness and isolation.
• Reduces stress and agitation: The structured and familiar nature of a game can be calming and comforting.
• Provides a sense of purpose: Completing a task, no matter how small, can foster a feeling of success and self-worth.

Key Considerations When Choosing a Game

When selecting a board game, the patient's individual abilities and stage of dementia are the most important factors. A game that was a favorite in the past may now be too complex. The goal is to set the individual up for success and enjoyment, not frustration. Here’s what to look for:

• Familiarity: Opt for classic games from their youth, as the rules may be easier to recall and the memories associated with them can be comforting.
• Simplicity: Choose games with simple rules and a clear objective. Avoid games with complex turns, hidden information, or long play times.
• Physical components: Look for games with large, easy-to-handle pieces that don't require fine motor skills. High-contrast colors and clear numbering are also helpful for vision.
• Non-Competitive Focus: Emphasize cooperation over competition. The focus should be on having a shared, positive experience, not on who wins or loses.
• Sensory and Tactile Elements: Consider games that incorporate different textures, colors, or familiar objects to engage multiple senses.

Recommended Board Games for Dementia Patients

Games for Early Stage Dementia

At this stage, individuals may still enjoy slightly more challenging games but might need adaptations. The focus can be on memory recall and light strategy.

• Dominoes: The tactile nature and clear number-matching make this a classic favorite. You can play simpler variations that focus on matching rather than scoring.
• Uno: This card game uses vibrant, contrasting colors and numbers, making it easy to see. Play without special cards (like 'Reverse' or 'Skip') to simplify the rules if needed.
• Checkers: The straightforward movement and objective are great for cognitive stimulation. Avoid chess, which is often too complex.
• Simple Card Games: Games like 'Snap' or a stripped-down version of 'Go Fish' are excellent. Use larger print cards for better visibility.
• Jigsaw Puzzles: Start with puzzles featuring larger pieces and fewer parts. Choose images of familiar themes, like animals, nature scenes, or vintage cars.

Games for Mid-to-Late Stage Dementia

As cognitive abilities decline, the games should be simpler, more repetitive, and focused on sensory engagement and reminiscence.

• Snakes and Ladders: The simple, repetitive motion of rolling a die and moving a token can be soothing and engaging. It’s based on chance, which reduces pressure.
• Custom Reminiscence Games: Games like 'Call to Mind' or 'All About Us' are specifically designed to prompt conversations and memories, providing a powerful way to connect.
• Simple Matching Games: Create your own with pairs of familiar photos (family members, pets) or large cards with clear, simple pictures.
• Ring Toss: This game involves simple, repetitive motor skills and can be played sitting down, reducing physical exertion.
• Bingo: A familiar classic that provides social engagement without complex rules. Use large-print cards and large tokens.

Playing Games: Tips for Caregivers

Your approach to the game is as important as the game itself. These tips can help ensure a positive experience for everyone.

1. Introduce Games Slowly: Start with short sessions in a quiet, calm environment to avoid overstimulation.
2. Focus on Enjoyment, Not Winning: Let go of the need to follow rules strictly. The goal is connection, not competition. If they want to place a piece incorrectly, let them. Celebrate small successes.
3. Offer Positive Reinforcement: Praise their participation and effort, regardless of the outcome. Use encouraging words and gestures.
4. Know When to Stop: Watch for signs of frustration, fatigue, or agitation. End the game session on a high note, and try again another time.
5. Adapt the Rules: Feel free to change the game's rules to make it simpler or more fun. Use cardholders, large dice, or play in teams to make it more accessible.

How to Select the Right Board Game: A Comparison Table

Feature	Dominoes	Uno	Snakes and Ladders	Reminiscence Games
Complexity	Low	Low (adaptable)	Very Low	Low
Skills Involved	Matching, Patterns	Color/Number Matching	Counting, Chance	Memory, Communication
Familiarity	High	Medium to High	High	Varies (often high)
Physicality	Low (tactile)	Low (card handling)	Low (token movement)	Low
Social Element	One-on-one or small group	Small group	Small group	Strong, conversational
Best For	All stages (adapted)	Early to mid-stages	Mid to late-stages	All stages (prompts)

Conclusion

Engaging a loved one with dementia through board games can be a deeply rewarding experience, strengthening bonds and providing valuable mental stimulation. By choosing familiar, simple, and adaptable games and focusing on patience and joy over winning, caregivers can create lasting moments of connection and happiness. The right game is more than just an activity; it is a tool for communication and a source of comfort. For more resources and support on dementia care, visit the Alzheimer's Association website.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know what board games are good for my specific dementia patient?

Start with games that were familiar and enjoyed in the past. Observe their reactions and adjust based on their stage of dementia. A game that is too challenging can cause frustration, while a simple, repetitive game can be calming.

Should I let my loved one with dementia win at board games?

The focus should be on participation and enjoyment, not on winning or losing. If letting them win makes the experience more positive, then do so. The main goal is to have a shared, positive interaction.

What if the person gets confused or frustrated during a game?

Remain calm and reassure them. If a game becomes stressful, it's best to stop and pivot to another activity. You can try again later, or simplify the game's rules even further.

Are there any board games to avoid playing with someone with dementia?

Avoid complex strategy games (like chess, unless they were an expert), games with many small pieces, and fast-paced or time-pressured games. The goal is to minimize confusion and anxiety.

What if my loved one can't remember the rules of a familiar board game?

Gently guide them and explain the rules in simple terms. You can also play on their team to help. The familiarity of the game board or pieces can still be a source of comfort, even if the rules are forgotten.

How often should we play board games?

Consistency is helpful. You can schedule regular, short sessions. Playing for 15-20 minutes a few times a week can be beneficial. Watch for signs of fatigue and don’t push them to play longer than they want.

Can board games help with short-term memory loss?

Engaging in simple cognitive tasks, like those in board games, provides mental stimulation that may help maintain certain cognitive functions. While it can't reverse memory loss, it can offer a fun way to practice skills and build positive moments.